Police Scotland chief defends coronavirus lockdown enforcement record

Police Scotland Chief Constable Iain Livingstone defended the record of his officers on enforcing coronavirus legislation, as he vowed to “maximise” the force’s visibility over the coming months.

Speaking at the Scottish Government’s daily coronavirus briefing, Mr Livingstone said Police Scotland have had more than 100,000 interactions with the public concerning Covid-19 rules.

He also revealed that the force has issued more than 7,000 fixed penalties and made nearly 550 arrests.

“We've made over 350 interventions at different premises. And we've closed about 90 of them,” he added.

Police Scotland Chief Constable Iain Livingstone defended the record of his officers on enforcing coronavirus legislation, as he vowed to “maximise” the force’s visibility over the coming months. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Defending the force’s record, Mr Livingstone argued that the Scottish public have shown “overwhelming support” for policing measures since March.”

He insisted that the approach of officers “will not change” during the current lockdown, stating: “our response has been, and will remain, proportionate, reasonable and fair - underpinned, of course, by the principle of consent from which we draw our legitimacy.”

Mr Livingstone also vowed to protect people who are vulnerable or at risk of abuse during the lockdown.

“As the requirement to stay at home becomes more acute, so does our concern for victims of domestic abuse.

“We will continue to work very, very closely with all our partners in local authority and in the primary sector, to make sure that protection is there at all times for people who are vulnerable to abuse, harm or neglect.

“I would urge anyone - everyone - with concerns about another person, a relative, friend, colleague or neighbour, to contact the police.

“We are here, 24 hours a day, every day. The police service of Scotland is there to help you,” he added.

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